ADVERTISEMENT

Subscriber Exclusive

Behind Anchor Christmas Ale: Q&A with Brewmaster Tom Riley

A stronger and darker Anchor Christmas Ale is here to help us try to forget about 2020. Here, Anchor’s brewmaster explains the thinking behind this year’s recipe and label.

Joe Stange Dec 7, 2020 - 6 min read

Behind Anchor Christmas Ale: Q&A with Brewmaster Tom Riley Primary Image

Photos: Courtesy Anchor Brewing

Arriving like a balm after a difficult year, the 46th edition of Anchor Brewing’s annual holiday warmer is its darkest and strongest yet. It appears on the watch of a new brewmaster, Tom Riley, who took over in August to become only the fourth there since Fritz Maytag took the helm in 1965.

Anchor always keeps this recipe under wraps, but Riley was willing to discuss some aspects of this year’s formulation. The 2020 Christmas Ale is a robust but balanced porterish brown ale of 7 percent ABV, which—based on my own tasting notes—has an accent of woodsy, juniper-like spicing. That spice is evident in the nose but doesn’t dominate the flavor, which is quite smooth, softly roasted, and drinks well below its strength.

CBB// I think a lot of people realize the Christmas Ale recipe changes every year, but I’m not sure how many of us have a broader sense of how it’s evolved. Please tell us about how the beer has changed over the years.

Make & Drink Better Beer

Subscribe today to access all of the premium brewing content available (including this article). With thousands of reviews, our subscribers call it "the perfect beer magazine" and "worth every penny." Your subscription is protected by a 100% money back guarantee.

ARTICLES FOR YOU